U.S. Sanctions Target 18 Iranian Entities And Individuals
Washington imposed sanctions on 18 Iranian individuals and entities accused of evading restrictions and funding illicit oil revenues.
In a statement issued Thursday, the Treasury named several institutions including RUNC Exchange, Cyrus Offshore Bank, and Pasargad Arian Holdings, a company specializing in IT and communications. Officials stated that these actors created complex banking systems and alternative messaging platforms to bypass sanctions and facilitate Iran’s unauthorized oil exports.
The sanctions come amid ongoing efforts to shut down financial lifelines that help sustain Iran’s regional influence and military capabilities. Secretary Besent asserted that Iran “can no longer hide within the global financial system” and that Washington is committed to cutting off all potential sources of income that support the country’s military operations.
Shamkhani’s Shipping Network And Arms Transfers
The Treasury also detailed a larger sanctions package issued on July 30 targeting over 50 individuals, entities, and vessels tied to Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani. His network allegedly operates a fleet of oil tankers and container ships transporting Iranian and Russian oil to global markets. The revenue generated, according to the U.S., is used to finance Tehran’s activities abroad.
Investigations further revealed that Shamkhani-linked companies were involved in transferring drone parts and missiles from Iran to Russia, in exchange for Russian oil shipments. These deliveries were often accompanied by falsified shipping documents and the disabling of tracking systems during port operations.